Out of Town 10/8-10/16

With a sense of humor that is both smart and approachable, comedian Wanda Sykes has gone from a National Security Agency staffer doing standup on the weekend to one of Entertainment Weekly's 25 funniest people and the first African-American woman and first LGBT person to host the White House Correspondents' Dinner. Whether she's writing or performing for TV, film, or Broadway, Sykes has a knack for tackling tough subjects—from racism and homophobia to rape—in a way that drives home deep revelations with raucous laughter. 8 pm. Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. $47-$74.

monday 13

Of Montreal

Think they're Canadian? Guess again. This Athens, Georgia band is often compared to Prince, Talking Heads and David Bowie. Experimental pop doesn't get much more experimental than when it's spewed from the mouth of this uber '60s-inspried crew. Wonder Ballroom. $15.

monday 13

Thug Kitchen

The writers behind "Thug Kitchen," a wildly popular blog site, aren't shy about their language or opinions, strongly urging people to eat some goddamn vegetables. Presenting their first book, "Eat Like you Give a F**k," they hand out some 100 recipes (like for "roasted Beer and Lime Cauliflower Tacos? Pumpkin Chili? Grilled Peach Salsa? Believe that sh*t!") and give practical tips, and peppered their cook book with fun and funny. 7:30 pm. Powell's. Free.

wednesday 15

Pickwick

The rebirth of soul is real and it's being channeled through Seattle band, Pickwick, with funky baselines and earth-shattering vocals that will heal your soul, old-school revival style. The band's first album, "Can't Talk Medicine," is over two years old but that doesn't make rousting jams like Hacienda Motel and Lady Luck featuring Sharon Van Etten any less hip-swinging. Doug Fir Lounge. $15.